Singapore announces S$1.1-billion support package

The multi-pronged package includes enhanced wage subsidies under the Jobs Support Scheme (JSS), rental relief for commercial properties, more support for drivers of taxis and private-hire vehicles and a new relief fund for market and hawker-centre stallholders. 

The food delivery booster package and the e-commerce booster package will be extended, said the Ministry of Finance (MOF). 

JSS support will be raised to 60% for the hardest-hit sectors such as food and beverage, gyms, fitness studios, performing arts organisations and arts education centres, where the tightened measures require them to suspend many, if not all, of their activities during the Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) period from July 22 to August 18, said MOF. 

Other sectors “significantly affected” by the restrictions that will have their JSS support increased to 40% include the retail sector, affected personal care services, tourist attractions, licensed hotels, cruise and regional ferry operators, MICE organisers, travel agents, museums, art galleries, cinema operators and other family entertainment centres. 

In addition, the COVID-19 Recovery Grant – Temporary will be made available until August 31 as part of the support package.  

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The grant provides a payout of up to S$700 (US$515) for employees placed on involuntary no-pay leave and up to S$500 (US$368) for employees who have lost at least half their incomes for at least one month as a result of tightened COVID-19 restrictions since May 16. Existing recipients of the grant who continue to require assistance can apply for a second payout under the scheme, MOF said.